{"product_id":"stars-guitars-rare-leo-knapp-dan-ransom-modulus-neck-1982-jgc-0056","title":"1980s Stars Guitars Custom w\/ Early Modulus Graphite Neck – Leo Knapp Design \/ Dan Ransom Build – Kahler USA – Rare California Boutique","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis is an exceptional and historically significant early-1980s California boutique custom built by \u003cb\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStars Guitars\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e, a small but highly influential shop operating during the golden era of West Coast hot-rod guitar design.\u003cbr\u003eUSA Seller, check my feedback to see how I value my customers and see my other listings for more rare Japanese Guitars and other unique gear! I use recycled packaging for reduced environmental impact and ship all items 100% insured against loss or damage.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDesigned by \u003cb\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLeo Knapp\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e (known for his early work with Neal Schon and later co-design contributions to the Yamaha Pacifica line) and built by master luthier \u003cb\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDaniel Ransom\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e, this instrument represents a fascinating intersection of emerging carbon-fiber technology and high-performance 1980s custom design.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEarly Modulus Graphite Neck\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe standout feature here is the \u003cb\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ehollow carbon fiber neck manufactured by Modulus Graphite\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e — from the period when Modulus was just pioneering composite neck construction in Northern California. These early graphite necks are increasingly appreciated for their stability, attack, and historical importance in the evolution of modern electric guitar design.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFew small-shop customs from this era were fitted with Modulus necks, making this a rare example of early cross-pollination between boutique builders and what would become one of the most respected composite neck companies in the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCalifornia Performance Spec\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKahler USA tremolo system\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSchaller tuners\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRare active Reflex pickups\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e25.5” scale\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1-11\/16” nut width\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLightweight at 7 lbs 10 oz\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe body design reflects the angular performance aesthetic of the era, with clear lineage to early Schon\/Jackson-style shapes that Leo Knapp was deeply involved in influencing.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe finish remains vibrant and highly reflective, with strong metallic depth. It presents beautifully.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCondition\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThere is some visible play wear on the back of the neck (purely cosmetic; the graphite remains smooth and fast). Moderate fret wear remains (approximately 7\/10 life left). Otherwise, the instrument presents exceptionally well and is structurally excellent.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIncludes a custom-fit hard case.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhy This Guitar Matters\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis is not a mass-produced model.\u003cbr\u003e This is not a reissue.\u003cbr\u003e This is not a catalog piece.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis is a one-off example from a short-lived but creatively important California builder during a pivotal era in electric guitar development — featuring early Modulus composite technology.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor collectors of:\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEarly Modulus history\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1980s West Coast boutique builds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePerformance-era custom instruments\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNeal Schon–adjacent design lineage\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e…this is a compelling and uncommon piece.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eInternal Use (Bin) - J2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Stars Guitars","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54047233507692,"sku":"JGC-0056","price":4995.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0991\/9378\/2636\/files\/oscg9hjhgs0kcl4uwtp9.jpg?v=1784429616","url":"https:\/\/japaneseguitarcompany.com\/products\/stars-guitars-rare-leo-knapp-dan-ransom-modulus-neck-1982-jgc-0056","provider":"Japanese Guitar Company","version":"1.0","type":"link"}